The Third Noble Truth is that suffering can end. Of this truth the Buddha said, “This cessation of suffering, as a noble truth, should be realized directly.”
It would be totally understandable to read about the Buddha’s discovery of pervasive suffering and its causes related to craving and self-cherishing and think, “I give up.”
But the Third Noble truth says, “Progress—even complete healing—is possible.” Nirvana, the complete and total end of suffering can be accomplished. He did it. He knew, based on his own experience. And he wasn’t the first, the only nor the last to do so. Enlightened women, men and those who are gender non-conforming have all lived, live and will live. And not just Buddhists. Of course.
Sound promising? It is. Read on.